Chapter 23
6 verses — switch translations with the toolbar below.
Scripture
KJV1The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
3He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.
4Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
5Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
6Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.
“The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.”
Overview
David's most beloved psalm declares, 'The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.' He describes God's provision in green pastures and beside still waters, His restoration of the soul, and His guidance in paths of righteousness. Even in the valley of the shadow of death, David fears no evil because God is with him. The psalm culminates with a table prepared in the presence of enemies, an overflowing cup, and the assurance of dwelling in God's house forever.
Key Themes
God as Personal Shepherd
The Lord is not a distant deity but a personal, attentive shepherd who knows, leads, provides for, and protects each of His sheep by name.
Fearless Trust in the Darkest Valley
Even in the shadow of death, the believer need not fear — God's presence, represented by His rod and staff, provides comfort and protection.
Abundance and Eternal Security
God does not merely meet minimum needs — He prepares a lavish table, anoints with oil, and fills the cup to overflowing, culminating in eternal dwelling with Him.
Study Questions
What does it mean to say 'The LORD is my shepherd' — how does the shepherd metaphor shape our understanding of God's care?
How does the phrase 'He restoreth my soul' (v. 3) speak to those experiencing spiritual exhaustion or brokenness?
What is the significance of walking 'through the valley of the shadow of death' rather than being kept from it (v. 4)?
What does it mean that God prepares a table 'in the presence of mine enemies' (v. 5)? Why not remove the enemies?
How does the final promise — 'I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever' (v. 6) — transform the way we face life and death?
Connection to Christ
Jesus identifies Himself as the Good Shepherd in John 10, directly fulfilling this psalm. He is the shepherd who leads, feeds, restores, and protects His sheep — and who lays down His life for them. Because Christ has walked through the valley of death and emerged victorious, His sheep can follow Him through that same valley without fear.
Personal Reflection
Take time to journal or meditate on what God is teaching you through Psalms 23. How can these truths transform your thinking and actions today?